Survey on automated systems for smart warehouses

In today's dynamic e-commerce and logistics landscape, the '¿last mile¿' has emerged as the ultimate frontier in the pursuit of seamless and efficient delivery services. As consumer expectations go for quicker, more convenient, and environmentally sustainable deliveries, the pressure on last-mile delivery businesses continues to intensify. This thesis embarks on a voyage into the innovative realm of smart warehouse technologies, where automation, artificial intelligence, and data-driven decision-making converge to reshape the landscape of last-mile delivery. Efficiency, sustainability, and customer satisfaction are redefined in this transformative terrain, one delivery at a time. The work delves deep into the modernizing wave of technologies revolutionizing warehouse operations. Through a comprehensive analysis of both research literature and market trends, the aim is to unravel the intricacies of existing solutions and the cutting-edge advances in the field. With a primary focus on enhancing safety, efficiency, maintenance, reliability, sustainability, flexibility, and energy consumption, our exploration encompasses the synergies between human expertise and the integration of digital systems and robotics. By scrutinizing these critical aspects, this study aims to pave the way for a new era of last-mile delivery solutions that not only meet the demands of today's dynamic market but also set a sustainable and innovative course for the future. While the focus is on the specific needs of e-commerce businesses, particularly those with diverse stock-keeping units differing in size, volume, and characteristics, it's important to note that the technologies explored may find applicability in various other industries with distinct product attributes. This concept of transferability underscores the versatility of these technological advancements. The findings reveal a compelling narrative: the key to the future of warehousing lies in the seamless integration of human expertise with cutting-edge technology. It's not a question of choosing between humans or machines, but rather harnessing their combined potential. The ability to swiftly adapt to the ever-changing technological landscape emerges as a critical competitive advantage.